Oakland officials and business leaders are launching a “Shop Local” campaign during the holiday season to support local businesses and bolster the city’s economy.
They say that’s because local purchases support jobs for residents and generate sales tax revenue for the city. City and business leaders also say that shopping local can help people avoid the stress of standing in lines.
The Shop Local campaign features a one-stop portal at shopoaklandnow.org that includes information on holiday events, the #ShopOAKProud photo contest, online directories and a concierge service. “Oakland is full of unique shops offering one-of-a-kind gifts all year round, and the Shop Local campaign serves as a wonderful reminder for residents and visitors alike to take full advantage of all that our small business community has to offer this holiday season,” Mayor Libby Schaaf said in a statement.
“Our diverse local artists and entrepreneurs are the backbone of our local economy, so I encourage all Oaklanders to put their money where their heart is and support the businesses that invest so much in us.”
Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf
City and business leaders said shoppers are encouraged to explore Oakland’s shopping districts, discover the unique gift items offered by local retailers and experience a variety of special events through New Year’s Eve. The one-stop portal has an online small business directory aimed at helping Oakland residents find boutiques, shops and makers offering one-of-a-kind holiday gifts.
Oakland residents who want to shop locally have a number of transportation options are available to help shoppers explore the city’s commercial districts without the hassle of looking for parking. The city said that because of BART, Alameda-Contra Costa Transit, the bike share system, e-scooters and ride-hailing and taxi services, shopping local is easier than ever and people can learn more about transportation options at oaklandca.gov/topics/holiday-transportation.
To encourage turn-over of parking spots to better ensure availability for shoppers, both on-street and in off-street garages and lots, the city will maintain standard pricing at all street meters and in city-owned garages and lots. City officials also remind shoppers that parking at street meters and in metered city parking lots is free on Sundays year-round, although time limits still apply.
The Love Oakland shop local holiday promotion is a partnership between the city of Oakland, Main Street Launch, the Oakland Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Visit Oakland.